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Watching The Music: A Landmark Compilation

Writer's picture: Noel MifsudNoel Mifsud

"Watching The Music" is a notable CD compilation that showcases the vibrant Maltese music scene of the early 1990s. Produced and released by Radio 101 in 1992, the album features ten tracks, with two songs each from five prominent Maltese bands: E-Zee Way Out, No Strings Attached, Brainstorm, Acid, and Bigfoot. This compilation was a spin-off from a radio show about the Maltese music scene, hosted by John Bundy.


Tracklisting:

E-Zee Way Out 

"Running Out Of Time" / "Sweet Little Angel"


No Strings Attached

"Seize The Day" / "The Good Life"


Brainstorm

"Only Time Will Tell" / "One Track Mind"


Acid

"Electric Lady" / "Rock City Limits"


Bigfoot

"Typecasted Entities" / "Angel Turning"



The album was directed by John Bundy, with Robert Longo and David Vella serving as producers and engineers. Recording sessions took place at Temple Studios in Mġarr, Malta, between January and May 1992.


The linear notes for "Watching The Music" were penned by then-chairman of Radio 101, Lou Bondi. Reflecting on the project's origins, Bondi wrote:

"Shortly after launching RADIO 101 in 1991 we started airing a programme on Maltese bands. Week after week we met a lot of intelligent and talented musicians who were edging to take the music scene by storm. We liked what we heard and wanted to capture their sounds on CD.


This project is the result of enthusiasm, team spirit and a genuine belief in the potential of these bands. It was great working with each of them. The people behind the scenes who made it all possible were Victor Formosa, John Bundy, Robert Longo, David Vella, Charles Stroud and Mario Muscat.


At RADIO 101 we're proud to have helped put this CD together. I wish the boys and girls in these bands the best of luck... Rock on and keep watching the music."


The compilation was dedicated to Chris Zammit, the late drummer of No Strings Attached, highlighting the heartfelt connection between the project and Malta’s close-knit music community.



"Watching The Music" holds a special place in Malta's musical history, capturing the essence of the local rock scene during a transformative period. The early 1990s were a time of significant growth and experimentation for Maltese bands, building upon the pioneering efforts of the 1980s. Bands like E-Zee Way Out and No Strings Attached contributed to this dynamic era, blending various rock influences to create a unique Maltese sound.


In 2012, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of "Watching The Music," Michael Bugeja of Radio 101 released a digital compilation titled "Rockna Live and Unplugged." This album featured live and unplugged performances from various Maltese artists who had appeared on the "Rockna" radio show, which began airing in July 2010. The compilation, featuring 13 tracks, was made available as a free download, offering listeners a taste of the music that had graced the local airwaves since the show's inception. (read Melodija.eu article: Rockna Live and Unplugged: A Celebration of Maltese Music Heritage here)


"Watching The Music" serves as a testament to the rich and evolving Maltese music scene, highlighting the talent and creativity of local bands during the early 1990s. It remains a cherished piece of Malta's cultural heritage, reflecting the island's passion for music and artistic expression.





Bibliography

  1. Discogs Entry for "Watching The Music"

    • URL: Discogs - Watching The Music

    • Description: Detailed information about the "Watching The Music" compilation, including track listings, production details, and contributors.

  2. "Rockna Live and Unplugged" Article on Times of Malta

    • Times of Malta, November 18, 2012.

    • URL: Rockna Live and Unplugged CD

    • Description: An article discussing the release of the "Rockna Live and Unplugged" digital album, commemorating the 20th anniversary of "Watching The Music."

  3. Temple Studios History

    • URL: Temple Studios

    • Description: Background on Temple Studios, the recording venue for "Watching The Music," highlighting its role in Maltese music production.

  4. "Maltese Music in the 1990s" by Alex Grech

    • Published in Malta Music Chronicles (2015), pages 123–134.

    • Description: A comprehensive overview of the Maltese music scene during the 1990s, including bands featured on "Watching The Music."

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